Who Makes This Medication?
Brand-name Betagan is manufactured by Allergan, Inc.
Betagan belongs to a group of drugs called beta-adrenergic blocking agents, more often known as
beta blockers. As the name implies, these medications block beta receptors in the body. Beta receptors are located in a number of places within the body, including the eyes. Beta blockers lower the pressure in the eye by decreasing the amount of fluid produced by the eye (known as aqueous humor).
Some general considerations include the following:
- This medication comes in the form of an eye drop. It is used in the affected eye(s) once or twice a day.
- In order to prevent contamination of the drops, do not touch the tip of the dropper to any surface, including the surface of the eye.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as directed.
The dose your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- How you respond to the medication
- Other medications you are taking
- Other medical conditions you have.
As always, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
As with any medicine, Betagan can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience bothersome side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Possible side effects of Betagan include, but are not limited to:
- Burning
- Stinging
- Inflammation of the lining of the eye and eyelid.
(Click Betagan Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking Betagan?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this medication if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose?
It is not clear what exactly to expect from an overdose with this medication. If you happen to overdose on Betagan, seek immediate medical attention.
How Should Betagan Be Stored?
Betagan should be stored upright between 59° F and 77° F. Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you do not take your Betagan as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose of this medication.
Betagan comes in the following strengths:
- Betagan 0.25 percent (10 mL bottles)
- Betagan 0.5 percent (5 and 10 mL bottles).
Generic Availability of Betagan
